Who is responsible for black mold removal in a Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found spreading along the base of the wall behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've been in this Dubai Marina apartment for over a year, but it's gotten worse since the humidity spiked. Who is responsible for the remediation and potential repainting—me as the tenant or the building management?
Posted by Varun Kapoor
Asked on April 7, 2026 2:23 pm
Based on Dubai's tenancy laws and the specifics you've described, the responsibility for black mold removal is typically determined by the source of the moisture. As a tenant, you are responsible for reporting the issue promptly and maintaining proper ventilation within the apartment. The landlord or building management is responsible for addressing the underlying structural or maintenance issue causing the moisture ingress.

In your case, the mold behind the wardrobe in a Dubai Marina apartment strongly suggests a hidden issue. This is a common problem in high-humidity coastal areas, exacerbated by year-round AC use leading to condensation, especially behind large furniture blocking airflow. The likely cause is a leaking pipe within the wall, faulty external waterproofing, or condensation from a cold bridge. These are structural or maintenance defects, placing the responsibility on the property owner or building management to rectify the source.

Your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, with photos, and request an immediate inspection. Do not attempt to remove it yourself with bleach, as this will only temporarily remove the visible stain and not address the root cause or the hidden microbial contamination.

A professional inspection is crucial. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the exact moisture source and assess the extent of the contamination within the wall cavity. This evidence is vital for determining liability. The remediation process must involve fixing the water source, followed by the safe containment and removal of all affected materials by trained technicians using HEPA filtration to prevent spore dispersal. Repainting is the final step, only after the area is fully dry and treated.

For a definitive assessment and to ensure your family's health, I strongly recommend a certified inspection. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our team can provide a detailed report to present to your landlord and handle the entire remediation process to Dubai Municipality standards.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 1:14 pm